SIOUX FALLS S.D. (KELO) — Whooping cough cases in South Dakota are up a whopping 415% over the five-year average.
According to the South Dakota Department of Health website, 170 cases have been reported so far this year. For the last five years, we’ve averaged about 33 cases. Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by bacteria. Along with a persistent cough, other symptoms include a runny nose, fever, and vomiting. The cough can last for up to three months, even after treatment with antibiotics.
South Dakota’s State Epidemiologist Josh Clayton says the state is tracking the increase in cases.
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“We are wanting folks to realize, one that pertussis is out there, usually starts as a very mild cough and then does progress can have some severe coughing spells, and something folks need to keep in mind as we head into the respiratory disease season,” said Clayton.
According to reporting data from the state, Sioux Falls and Brookings appear to be the hot spots, according to October’s numbers. The western part of the state has fewer cases so far.